A dam that can't hold back water. Oops!

For years the Springbank Dam held back the water of the Thames River creating a reservoir backing up for miles from the edge of town right to the core of the city.

Then the aging dam was left damaged by a severe summer rainstorm. A replacement dam was designed and installed. It was a fancy design with hugh pistons lifting and lowering the massive water blocking gates into position.

Sadly, in use, the gates can trap debris and jam. The design was, to be honest, always questionable. Many were not surprised when the dam gates failed while being tested. The new dam was never put into operation and today it sits idle facing possible demolition.

The river is healthier without a functioning dam. The city has recouped its expenses after winning a lawsuit against the firm that built the poorly engineered structure. The gates are sitting flat on the river bottom and will remain there indefinitely.

Oh well, it is a successful conversation starter.